‘Pioneers’: NRL’s history-making refs move

NRL: A shocking brawl has overshadowed a Souths Juniors grand final at Redfern Oval.

Sharpe will oversee the clash between Manly and the Wests Tigers on Friday, while Badger will control the Gold Coast Titans game against the Bulldogs on Sunday.

While Sharpe has officiated under the two-referee system previously, it’s the first time female match officials have operated as the lone referees in NRL history.

NRL football boss Graham Annesley said both Sharpe and Badger deserved to make history together.

“Kasey and Belinda have both been exceptional officials and it’s so pleasing that they have both continued to develop so well,” Annesley said.

“As pioneers, they have had to deal with added pressure through their careers, but they progressed through the refereeing pathways diligently and patiently waited for the opportunity.”